I may be biased but Christmas in Devon is wonderful. Here’s my guide to what to expect in Devon this December. It includes where you’ll find Christmas events at attractions as well as festive shows, light trails and Santa himself!
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Some dates are still being worked on so pop back for even more events and experiences closer to the festive season. And if I’ve missed something, let me know!
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Christmas in Devon: the ultimate guide for families
Know of an event I can add to my monthly guides? Submit a listing!
Here’s what you can expect Christmas to look like in 2025:
Free things to do this Christmas
There’s no getting away from the fact Christmas can be expensive.
So, let me point you in the direction of some free festive fun this winter including light and treasure trails, where to meet Santa for free and light switch ons with free entrainment.
Read my full guide to free things to do in Devon this Christmas.
Here’s some more free things to do in Devon.
Christmas shows and pantomimes in Devon
Here are the Christmas shows and pantomimes happening in Devon in 2025:
- Exeter Northcott – Jack and the Beanstalk – 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
- Theatre Royal Plymouth – Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas – 27 November to 28 December 2025
- The Quad Theatre in Derriford – The Snow Beast – 10 to 24 December 2025
- Queens Theatre Barnstaple – Aladdin – 12 to 31 December 2025
- Princess Theatre Torquay – Sleeping Beauty – 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026
- Theatre Royal Plymouth – Dick Whittington – 12 December 2025 to 10 January 2026
- Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport – Yoghurt the Yeti – 13 to 24 December 2025
- Exeter Corn Exchange – Wizard of Oz – 13 December 2025 to 1 January 2026
- Exeter Phoenix – Ernie and the Sea of Ice – 14 to 28 December 2025
- Pavilions Teignmouth – Beauty and the Beast – 20 to 27 December 2025
- Palace Theatre Paignton – Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates – 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2026
- Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport – The Imaginarium – 20 to 24 December 2025
- Exmouth Pavilion – Jack and the Beanstalk – 22 December 2025 to 1 January 2026
- Manor Pavilion Theatre, Sidmouth – Mother Goose – 27 December 2025 to 3 January 2026
- Barnfield Theatre, Exeter – Robin Hood – 30 to 31 December 2025
Christmas light switch ons
Want to take the kids to see your nearest town of city lit up for the festive season? Take a look at my full guide to where to see Devon’s Christmas light switch ons.
Where to meet Santa in Devon 2025
If Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to Santa’s grotto, then here’s where to find Father Christmas in Devon in 2025.
Top tip: also see the Christmas events happening at Devon attractions a bit further down this guide. Santa is bound to make an appearance!
Grottos and Santa appearances in South Devon
Here’s where to see the man in red as he tours South Devon:
Lanterns, Lights and Luminations in Brixham – 21 to 22 November 2025
This popular event in South Devon returns in 2025 with a magical lantern parade, a firework display, live music, street entertainment, and a market.
The event will include the Christmas light switch on, the arrival of Santa and fireworks.
This event is free to attend.
Lanterns, Lights and Luminations, Brixham Harbour.
Candlelit Dartmouth – 28 to 30 November 2025
Expect a spectacular procession with hundreds of beautiful, hand-made paper lanterns and Father Christmas’ arriving by fire engine at 6pm on the Friday night. He’ll have treats to hand out to the children.
In 2025 an additional third day will feature carol singing around the Christmas tree.
More details are still to be released about this year’s event.
Christmas at Woodlands near Dartmouth – selected dates 29 November to 23 December 2025
Woodlands’ Christmas grotto returns this winter with a 10 room walk-through experience featuring snowy forests, cozy cabins and the amazing Elf Toy Factory.
As well as combined theme park and grotto tickets there are magical Christmas nights when you can visit the park after hours to meet Santa.
For further information visit the Woodlands website.
Santa’s Grotto at Boringdon Hall – SOLD OUT for 2025
Santa will be visiting Boringdon Hall on three dates in the run up to Christmas. As well as the grotto this experience includes a festive afternoon tea and Christmas activities for the whole family.
Book in advance to meet Santa at Boringdon Hall.
Santa’s Grotto at Boringdon Hall, Plymouth
Santa at Paignton Zoo – selected dates from 6 to 24 December 2025
Santa will be visiting the zoo on dates throughout the festive season, so book your visit to see him in his grotto. You can book child tickets with and without a gift but all include zoo entry for the day of your grotto visit.
Find out more about what’s on at Paignton Zoo this Christmas.
Where to meet Santa in East Devon
Find Father Christmas making an appearance at these Devon businesses:
Sail with Santa and Stuart Line Cruises in East Devon – selected dates from 6 December and 22 December 2025
Meet Santa on the River Exe this Christmas by hopping onboard a Stuart Line Cruises.
There will be a Punch and Judy Show, as well as all the usual festive fun on this very special ride including a visit to Santas grotto. For adults there will be commentary about the river, mulled wine and mince pies.
Sail with Santa, Exmouth.
Santa’s Grotto at Wildwood Devon in Ottery St Mary – selected dates from 6 to 24 December 2025
Meet Santa in his enchanting world surrounded by elves busily preparing for the big day. Each child will have five minutes with Santa (book consecutive slots for each child in your family) and receive a luxury soft toy and mounted photo.
Grotto tickets must be booked in addition to park entry or membership.
Find out more and book Santa’s Grotto at Wildwood.
Santa’s grottos in West Devon
Here’s where to find Father Christmas and his elves in West Devon:
Christmas Farm Trail at Strawberry Fields at Lifton Farm – 29 & 30 November, with selected dates from the 6 – 23 December 2025
Father Christmas and his merry elves will be spreading festive cheer throughout the farm this year with magic shows, tractor rides, photo opportunities and a chance to meet the big man himself.
Find out more and book the Christmas experience at Strawberry Fields.
Santa at Made-well CIC in Hatherleigh, West Devon – 13 December 2025
Made-well’s Santa’s Grotto offers the ideal setting for families and friends to make lasting memories.
For only £5 per person participating, enjoy a meeting with Santa Claus and receive a gift from the big man himself! This grotto is accessible and welcoming for all ages.
Find out more and book online.
Santa’s experiences in North Devon
Get these North Devon grottos and Santa experiences in your festive calendar:
Santa’s Mistletoe Lodge Grotto at Green Lanes shopping centre in Barnstaple – 27 November to 7 December 2025
Step inside Santa’s Mistletoe Lodge at Green Lanes and discover a brand-new illuminated Tunnel of Lights leading to the jolliest grotto in North Devon.
Find out more about this grotto.
The Magic of Christmas at Milky Way Adventure Park – selected dates from 6 to 23 December 2025
Santa’s Christmas Cottage returns to the Milky Way this festive season. Walk through an enchanted wood, get creative in the Elf Emporium and ride the festive train. The park’s all-weather attractions will also be open making this a full winter day out.
Your timed visit to the cottage grotto is booked at the same time as your park tickets.
For more information and to book visit the The Milky Way website.
Santa’s Grotto at St John’s Garden Centre in Barnstaple – 29 November to 24 December 2025
Children will embark on an enchanting journey through Winter JungleLand, transformed into a sparkling wonderland of festive animals, lush greenery, and twinkling lights, all leading to a log-cabin style grotto.
When their moment arrives, little ones will step inside to meet Santa himself, share their Christmas wishes, and take home a very special gift picked by the man himself.
Find out more on the garden centre’s website.
Santa’s Gingerbread Grotto Experience at Woolley Animals, North Devon – selected dates from 7 to 23 December 2025
Visit Santa’s grotto at the farm to receive a special gift. Tickets include entry to the farm, the festive Winter Wonderland animal barn and market.
For more information visit the Woolley Farm website.
Santas on a Bike in South Molton – 13 December 2025
The Annual Santa Ride from Taunton to Little Bridge House Children’s Hospice will be visiting South Molton Town Square for the Mayor’s fundraiser for the hospice.
Alongside the Santa ride, which last year included more than 250 bikes, trikes and quads, there will be snow, photo opportunities, carols and Christmas gifts in the Pannier Market.
This event is free to attend.
Find out more about this year’s ride.
Christmas craft events
Festive Pottery Painting at Made-well in Hatherleigh, West Devon – 15 November 2025
Unleash your festive creativity in this family-friendly Christmas Pottery Painting session with the team at Made-well CIC. !
Paint a piece of Christmas bisque ready to decorate your home, or as a gift for someone special. The session is open to all ages and abilities, on our accessible and inclusive site 🎅 Tickets are £12, which includes one piece of festive bisque and everything you will need to decorate it ready for the Big Day.
Find out more and book you place online.
Craft Your Own Woodwork Christmas Tree at Made-well CIC in Hatherleigh West Devon – 6 December 2025
Get into the festive spirit by crafting your very own Christmas tree with the team at Made-well. This hands-on woodworking session is perfect for teens and their families, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker.
You will create a Christmas tree, perfect to decorate your home or gift to a loved one. All tools and materials provided.
Find out more and book your places online.
Printed Ornaments with Annabel Hill in Barnstaple – 7 December 2025
Join Annabel Hill to make paper chains and card hanging pendants at Studio KIND in Barnstaple Pannier Market. All these festive crafts will be embellished with your own prints to decorate your home this festive season.
Get tickets on Eventbrite.
Christmas light trails in Devon in 2025
Winter Twilight Trail at Crealy near Exeter – selected dates from 15 to 30 November 2025
This after-dark light experience is back on Crealy’s festive calendar for a second year.
Explore the park’s rides in the dark alongside new winter light displays, illuminated rides and an even bigger light tunnel.
Find out more about Winter Twilight Trail at Crealy.
Glow at RHS Rosemoor, Great Torrington – selected dates from 21 November to 30 December 2025
RHS Rosemoor will be celebrating the tenth anniversary of Glow with a redesigned Winter Garden, where trees shimmer in ethereal blues and greens, and light installations create a wonderland perfect for families and festive photos.
There will also be food, drinks and gift shopping.
Find out more about Glow at RHS Rosemoor.
Bay of Lights illuminated trail, Torquay – 28 November 2025 to 2 January 2026
Christmas Wonderland Illuminations at Babbacombe Model Village – selected dates from 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Enter a magical miniature wonderland of festive lights at Babbacombe Model Village this Christmas.
There will be miniature seasonal scenes, a spot the elves and Santa challenge and crazy golf. The Christmas lights are on from 3.30pm. Last entry is 4.30pm but the lights continue until 6.30pm.
Find out more about Christmas at Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay.
Powderham Castle – Christmas Lights and Grotto – 1 to 31 December 2025
Christmas at the Castle is back this winter, offering dazzling lights and festive displays, Christmas music, and indulge in delicious seasonal treats.
The brand-new for 2025 is the Winter Garden which offers an immersive festive experience filled with lights, family entertainment and games. Guests will be greeted at the elf-guarded gates before stepping inside to discover a magical space where Father Christmas will also be ready to hear children’s Christmas wishes.
Inside the castle, steeped in centuries of history and adorned with seasonal décor, more festive surprises await. Whether exploring the grounds with a hot chocolate in hand or discovering hidden details within the castle itself, every moment promises to be filled with Christmas cheer.
An accessible ‘Be You Hour’ is available on Tuesday evenings. Check the Powderham Castle website for details of what to expect.
For more information see the Powerham Castle website.
Zooluminate at Dartmoor Zoo – 12 to 28 December 2025
Dartmoor Zoo’s illuminated light trail around the enclosures returns this winter with the added bonus of a free hot drink and a mince pie to enjoy while you wander around the wintery walk.
The light installations from JHAV, the incredible team that brought you The Atlantic Project and Illuminate Festival of Light include a whole host of new and exciting displays. the zoo can’t guarantee the animals will be outside, but the lights have been specifically researched and chosen to illuminate without causing any harm or disruption.
There’s also a Santa’s Grotto, from 12 to 23 December, which is ticketed separately to Zooluminate.
Find out more about Zooluminate 2025.
Winter wonderlands in Devon
Here’s the winter wonderlands that have been announced in Devon:
Plymouth Winter Wonderland – 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Plymouth, get ready to deck the halls with boughs of holly and lace up your skates, because Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland is back.
Following the resounding success of last year’s event, the magical winter festival is set to return to Central Park.
This year’s Winter Wonderland promises to be even more enchanting, with a host of festive delights for all ages. Step into a Winter Wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and Christmas cheer complete with ice rink, Santa’s grotto, fairground rides, a ski lodge bar and plenty of stalls selling food and drinks.
Find out more about Plymouth Winter Wonderland.
Exeter Winter Wonderland – 21 November to 28 December 2025
Exeter’s winter wonderland returns this winter with an ice rink, Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Market, fairground rides and live entertainment.
This year’s wonderland will also include a naughty elves workshop as part of the grotto experience. You can also meet The Grinch on the ice every Sunday at 3pm.
The Winter Wonderland is free entry with tickets available to pre-book online for Santa’s Grotto and the ice rink now.
Find out more and book tickets on the Exeter Winter Wonderland website.
Polar Express and Santa trains in Devon
All aboard! Christmas is rolling into Devon with a series of Christmas trains and even the Polar Express.
Expect plenty of festive cheer and maybe even Santa himself in my guide to Christmas trains in Devon.
Find out more about days out for tram and loco fans in my full guide to steam trains in Devon.
Ice rinks in Devon
There’s three real ice rinks popping up in Devon this winter including fun and accessible sessions for the whole family. Read my guide to find out where they are taking place between November and January.
Christmas events at Devon attractions and National Trust properties
Devon’s attractions put on a great show at Christmas with special events and displays during the festive season.
Here’s where you can expect to find events on in Devon this December:
A Forever Home trail at the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth – daily until 9 February 2026
In this winter season’s fun family trail at the Donkey Sanctuary you are tasked with finding all the things that make their shelter a forever home. Complete the puzzle on your trail sheet as you explore and meet the sanctuary’s lucky residents.
Trail sheets cost £5 each and can be bought in the gift shop. Entry to the sanctuary is free and dogs on leads are welcome.
Find out more about what’s on at the Donkey Sanctuary this winter.
Christmas Nativity at Pennywell Farm – selected dates from 21 November to 24 December 2025
Pennywell Farm’s magical Christmas event begins with a welcome from the elves before you are transported back 2,000 years to a nativity scene starring animals from the farm.
There will be plenty of treats for young and old as well as a visit to meet Father Christmas in an enchanted forest. Every child will receive a special present.
If you are interested in going this year, read our review of Christmas at Pennywell Farm.
Find out more about Christmas at Pennywell Farm.
A Christie inspired Christmas at Greenway near Galmpton – selected dates from 22 November to 31 December 2025
The team at Agatha Christie’s former holiday home is taking inspiration from her short story collection, and its enigmatic character the Mysterious Mr Quinn for this year’s the decorations and family friendly festive trail.
The house and gardens are open weekends in the run up to Christmas and then from the 27 December until New Year.
Admission to Greenway is free for National Trust members. Parking is limited and must be booked online in advance.
Find out more about visiting Greenway this Christmas.
Nutcracker Christmas at Arlington Court near Barnstaple – selected dates from 22 November to 31 December 2025
Head to Arlington Court National Trust house and gardens to experience a magical Nutcracker world this Christmas as the house transforms into the lands of sweets, flowers and snow, with twinkling lights and dried blooms from the garden.
Enjoy festive photo spots, a Nutcracker trail, family activities, and open evenings with fire pits, marshmallows and pop up shops by local makers. Normal entry fees apply and members can visit for free. No pre-booking required.
Find out more on the Arlington Court website.
A Roaring 20s Christmas at Coleton Fishacre near Brixham – selected dates from 22 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Coleton Fishacre is marking its centenary in 2025 so what better way to celebrate Christmas than with a festive party reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. There’ll be glitz, glamour and a hint of gin as we all end the year with a bang.
Outside take a bracing walk around the coastal garden with its wonderful sea views and warm up with a treat at the cafe.
Admission is free for National Trust members.
Find out more about Twixmas at Coleton Fishacre.
Knightshayes near Tiverton – 27 December 2025 to 4 January 2026
Experience a Victorian Christmas at Knightshayes. Explore the ground floor of the decorated house, discover different Victorian traditions and create wonderful festive memories. There’s also late night opening on selected dates.
Find out more about visiting Knightshayes.
Arthurian Christmas at Buckland Abbey near Plymouth – 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Step into the Great Barn and into a forest of trees which will transport you into the story of King Arthur.
You’ll be surrounded by beautiful twinkling trees where you can listen to the story of Gawain and the Green Knight before you step forward to see a wicker sculpture of the battle itself,
Be sure not to miss the tallest tree at the end of the Barn where you will see the mythical Excalibur surrounded by stars.
The Abbey has been filled with more legendary Christmas delights from Merlin’s Apothecary to Guinevere’s chamber, each room will be filled with festive sparkle and an opportunity to acquaint yourself with characters from the mythical stories of King Arthur.
Find out more about the Christmas at Buckland Abbey near Yelverton.
Killerton near Exeter – 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
Visit Killerton this winter to see the house decorated for a traditional Christmas with handmade ornaments, festive music, games and trees dressed by local groups.
You can also see the Res Dress Project, which is collaborative embroidery project begun by British artist Kirstie Macleod in 2009. The stunning Red Dress has travelled to 51 countries and features work by 380 embroiderers many of whom are vulnerable and living in poverty.
Outdoors there’s a festive activity trail including games from around the world.
Don’t miss the Chapel where there are 12 Christmas trees decorated by local community groups.
Find out more about winter visits to Killerton.
The Gruffalo’s Child at Saltram in Plymouth – from 29 November 2025 to 2 February 2026
The Gruffalo’s Child will be taking over Saltram this winter. The magic of this beloved story will be brought to life within Saltram’s garden. Follow along on the journey through the deep dark wood with games, challenges and plenty of festive photo moments along the way.
Please note: the house will be closed this Christmas season while work happens to make Saltram more accessible for the future.
The parkland is open daily.
Find out more about winter opening at Saltram.
Clovelly Christmas Lights in North Devon – 30 November 2025
Head to Clovelly to see the Christmas Lights switched on. The local brass band will procession down to the harbour where there will be carols, a hog roast and other festive refreshments.
Don’t miss a visit from Father Christmas himself and seeing the entire village and harbour lit up.
Entrance fee: £5 per adult at the Visitor Centre after 2pm. All proceeds to RNLI.
Find out more about Clovelly Christmas Lights at Clovelly Village.
Christmas at Crealy near Exeter – selected dates from 6 to 23 December 2025
Crealy’s Christmas celebrations are set to return this winter. Expect a glittering pantomime, Christmas activities, a meet and greet in Santa’s grotto and a toy from his shop.
Here’s a taster of what this great Devon Christmas day out has involved in previous years.
Take a look at our full guide to days out at Crealy Adventure Park.
Christmas at Crealy, Exeter.
Christmas experience at Otter Garden Centre, Ottery St Mary – selected dates from 17 to 23 December 2025
This hands-on Festive Adventure at Ottery St Mary will not only get you in the festive mood, it’s also raising funds for Hospiscare.
Santa isn’t making an appearance but you can write him a letter, meet his singing reindeer, explore the twinkling winter wonderland, collect a cookie mix to take home and make reindeer food. Finish your visit with a little train ride.
Every penny from ticket sales goes directly towards the vital work of Hospiscare.
Check availability and get your tickets.
Devon Christmas markets and fairs in 2025
What better way to enjoy the festive season than with a mulled cider and bratwurst while browsing locally produced gifts?
Read my full guide to Christmas markets in Devon.
Looking for more things to do between Christmas and New Year? Check out my guide to Twixmas in Devon.
Know of an event I can add to my monthly guides? Submit a listing!
Where to buy a Christmas tree in Devon
If Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without a real tree here’s where to buy a Christmas tree in Devon:
- Cotley Farm Christmas trees, near Ottery St Mary
- Connet Farm, Honiton
- Dartmoor Christmas Trees, Haldon
- Marldon Christmas Tree Farm, Marldon
- Stacey’s Christmas Tree Farm, Holsworthy
- John Cockram Christmas Trees, Chulmleigh Hill
Phew, what a lot there is going on this Christmas in Devon! What takes your fancy? I’m sure there’s events I’ve missed so please do get in touch if you think something should be added.
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Rosie
Tuesday 19th of September 2023
Dartmoor Zoo are also organising a light trail if you wanted to add them to your list
Claire Hall
Thursday 21st of September 2023
Fantastic, thanks for letting me know!
Things to do on holiday in Devon this winter 2022/23 - Nethway
Tuesday 29th of November 2022
[…] In fact, Christmas is a big event in Devon. From early November you’ll find a packed calendar […]
Alana
Sunday 26th of September 2021
You left off The Soapbox Theatre in Devonport. They always do an amazing Xmas show
Claire Hall
Sunday 26th of September 2021
I believe they're going to send me the details so I can add them :)
Lucy
Friday 20th of November 2020
Thank you, this is really helpful in planning kid activities this year ! X
Claire Hall
Monday 23rd of November 2020
Hi Lucy, you are very welcome. I'm glad you've found it useful.
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Thursday 17th of September 2020
[…] Or check here for lots more things to do at Christmas in Devon […]